UNUSUAL SPORTS ON CAMPUS

Miné Fourie

@mine.fouriee

 

When people hear the word “sport”, it rarely happens that a person thinks of canoeing, karate, and rock climbing. At the North-West University (NWU), it is not common knowledge that these sports can also be part of your university experience. These sports are mostly overlooked or forgotten, and without good reason.

 

Canoeing, also known as kayaking or paddling, is one of the leading institutions that contributes to the rapid growth of canoeing in South Africa. This activity takes place at Potch Dam, where there are specific facilities for the canoeists. Canoeing improves overall fitness levels, and can be a relaxing hobby. Any NWU student is welcome to join the club (even as a social member), and can contact Helene Botha through her email at [email protected] for more information.

 

 

Karate is another sport that NWU students can join to relieve some stress, and gain new skills. It is mostly known as an individual sport, but here at the university it is performed as a team. The teams consist of traditional karateka and sport karateka on beginner levels. Sensei Johan van Tonder — a sixth Dan — coaches the team, and celebrates his past victories with pride, such as leading the team to USSA competitions for the past 20 years. The NWU encourages anyone who wants to try something new to contact Johan at 018 299 2914.

 

The university is also proudly home to the NWU Rock Climbing Club — led by Japie Venter. This club is perfect for students who love the occasional adrenaline rush or thrill of new adventure. No experience or fees are required to join this club, and they welcome any new members. For the people who want to observe, training times are at the G16 wall Mondays to Thursdays from 16:00 –18:00. You can contact Japie at 079 560 8544.

 

 

It is never too late to learn a new skill. Sign up for something out of your comfort zone, and maybe you will live to tell a story no one will forget!

 

Edited by Kristen Welgemoed